Fluvanna Review Staff
U.S. Rep. John McGuire used a one-minute speech on the floor of the House of Representatives on April 16 to recognize a local milestone: the 100th anniversary of E.W. Thomas in Palmyra.
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the centennial anniversary of the E.W. Thomas Grocery Store and DMV in Fluvanna County in Virginia’s 5th District,” McGuire said in remarks entered into the Congressional Record.
McGuire highlighted the store’s long history as a family-owned business and its role in the community, noting that it has provided jobs, supported families, and offered DMV services in a rural area.
He described the business as “more than just a grocery store” and “a living symbol of resilience, service, and the enduring spirit of rural America.”
Members of the House are often granted short speaking opportunities at the beginning of the legislative day, commonly known as “one-minute speeches.” During this time, lawmakers can address topics of their choosing, ranging from national policy issues to local recognitions of people and places within their districts.
While brief, these comments become part of the Congressional Record, the official daily transcript of the proceedings of the U.S. Congress. Once something is in the record, it is part of the historical archive of federal lawmaking.
The recognition came as a surprise to the store’s owners, who learned of it when someone forwarded them the video posted on McGuire’s social media channels.
“None of us knew this was being done,” they said on Facebook. “It is an honor and a privilege to be a part of this community for 100 years.”
“I guess this means we should have a party!” they added.
Members of the community were generally pleased with McGuire’s remarks, but some noted one omission.
“He forgot to mention the fried chicken!!” one commenter posted on Facebook. “It is the best!!”
